Everyone wants beautiful hair. Hair extensions can fulfill that wish. However, it's unfortunate that the first experience many have with hair extensions is a poor one. If you want your hair additions to be done professionally, it important to find a stylist who knows what they are doing and does it well.

The following is a list of criteria to consider when looking for a stylist/weavologist/extensionist BEFORE committing to that first appointment to have hair extensions installed. They have been compiled from our knowledgeable members on the hairextensions101.com forum.

RESEARCH (Do your homework): - become an expert in hair extensions. Read all the information you can get your hands on. - Have an idea of what you want your extensions to look like. - compare hair vendors' quality and prices. - find photos of the style, length and color you prefer.

CREDENTIALS (Questions to ask a potential stylist):-"How long have you been doing extensions?" - "Are you a licensed cosmetologist?"- "Is it possible to hear some of our client's feedback on your work?" - "May I see before-and-after photos of your clients?"- "Where did you receive your training and what techniques are you qualified in?" - "Can I come in and watch you do an install?"-"May I sample the method I am interested in?"

HAIR SPECIFIC/RELATED (hair texture, hair damage): - Try to determine whether the stylist has any background or knowledge of hair types, textures and general hair health. If you have fine, straight hair for example, the person you are considering should know how to work with that particular hair type. - If you are interested in a sew-in weave, ask about braiding techniques; make sure they know you don't want your braids too tight.- Think about what your own hair goals are: growth, volume, length or maybe hiding hair issues such as baldness. - what is the difference between synthetic and human hair? What is their reasoning for using either one? - Do they use quality hair (either synthetic or human)? - How much will it cost just for the hair itself (if it's included in the installation)?

METHOD SPECIFIC-Ask if you can try a sample of the method you are interested in. For eg. if you are leaning towards fusion, ask if a few pieces/strands can be tested so you can make a more knowledeable decision. -Find out HOW the extensionist plans to go about doing the method you have chosen or are interested in. They should be able to describe step-by-step how they will install your hair, starting from the first wash to the final styling of the hair. - It is arguably best to go with a stylist who has done many different methods of extensions. Although, if they haven't, it does not mean they are not good extensionists. - Remember, there is no BEST extension method. There is the BEST method suited to your hair, lifestyle and price point. Don't allow a stylist to tell you otherwise.

POLICY/ETHICS: - Pricing: Try to get an exact cost for your anticipated installation. Don't leave anything to assumption or chance. What is included: hair cut and style? Is there monthly maintenance? Is there a charge for removal? It will be safer to pay by credit card or Paypal so you have some options for refund if your hair doesn't turn out properly. - Time: How long is the installation expected to take? Ask if the stylist/weavologist plans to take extended breaks (you may want to bring snacks and a drink!). - Environment: Visit the salon or location of your appointment beforehand if you can. You'll want to get a feel for whether it is a professional environment or one where kids are running around and friends and gossip rules the day. -Most importantly, if you don't feel comfortable with a potential stylist, then don't commit to them and DO NOT get talked into letting them install extensions on your head!

DURING INSTALLATION: - Ask questions and be aware. Too many clients have no idea what was done to their heads! It is very important to be very observant and know what's going on. WATCH what the sylist is doing. If there is no mirror then ASK for one so you can SEE the process. - Also, become familiar with the method your stylist/extensionist is using including the terms that are often used to describe tools and processes. If you don't understand why something is being done, then ask. If you have never seen particular instruments or tools being used, then ask what they are and why they are being used.

WHEN A BAD EXTENSION JOB HAPPENS TO A GOOD PERSON: - Don't panic. Take a deep breath; it's USUALLY not as bad as it seems. Most times, its just someone not being used to all of that hair, or it needs washing for everything to blend and lay right.

If washing and blending doesnt help, sometimes it can be a matter of a little layering in the right places. Sometimes the addition of a few strategically placed bonds or even the removal of a few bonds can do wonders to the overall results.

If its just a matter of not looking right, or feeling that it doesnt blend, dont panic or freak out on the stylist. These things can usually be fixed pretty easily. It takes a few times before you get the exact placement down to a tee. This is easily remedied. Some curls in your hair will help hide any blending issues until it can be resolved. Even a ponytail, scarf or hat will get you through until it can be fixed.

If its a matter of a totally terrible install job that can't be salvaged and must be removed, many believe it is NOT a good idea to return to the same stylist. If they did a horrible job installing then it is likely they won't do a great job removing --- leading to a great risk of damage.

If you feel that you had a bad install...please wait and do a few things before removing:

#1 Get some additional opinions if possible. Have others look at it.

#2 Take pictures, LOTS of up close, clear pictures. Video is even better..or do both.

#3 Contact the stylist (Calmly) and see if she offers a resolution (again, if its a bad install situation, dont let her do the removal)

#4 If you are not going to get a pro to do the removal, get someone to help you. It's less stressful when you have help considering that you are already upset about it to begin with. Use the proper products to remove them; don't PULL, let the removers WORK.

*Thanks to Sherrie, Jacy, Jennzy, Tanhair, DivaVocals and Sofiaone1 for contributing to this guide.